Bronx officials warn of identity theft at private ATMs in the borough

Using a private ATM card at bodegas and convenience stores throughout the Bronx might not be as safe as originally thought. Officials say thieves are getting their hands on personal information, including bank account numbers and home addresses, when Bronx residents swipe their bankcard at neighborhood ATMs. Lawmakers say legislation to register all non-bank ATMs with the city is the only way to protect identity. Manhattan District Attorney Robert Morganthau says even if the legislation does pass, it won't get rid of identity theft. It will, however, give law enforcement a way to track down the thieves. Officials from the district attorney's office warn Bronx residents, until there is some regulation on private ATMs, only use bank ATMS and safeguard personal information.